 Agriculture has always been and will always be an essential part of the lives of British Columbians. The B.C. Agriculture Plan: Growing a Healthy Future for B.C. Families is a long-term plan for the future of agriculture in B.C. It provides vision and direction for farm families while playing an important role in reducing the greenhouse gas emissions that contribute to climate change. A strong agriculture industry means a bright future for B.C. families.
At the heart of this long-term plan is B.C.’s agriculture vision:
Continued development and growth of an economically viable and resilient agriculture and food sector which contributes significantly to:
- the health of British Columbians;
- climate change mitigation;
- environmental sustainability; and
- a growing B.C. economy.
The 23 strategies for sustaining the agriculture industry outlined in the plan are linked to five key themes:
1. Producing local food in a changing world
- All British Columbians should have access to safe, locally produced food. B.C. will enhance its market brand to profile high-quality products reflecting our province’s reputation for environmental sustainability and healthy living.
2. Meeting environmental and climate challenges
- The agricultural sector will contribute to our provincial greenhouse gas emission reduction targets through shifts in farm practices, development of new local markets and the advancement of new technology.
3. Building innovative and profitable family farm businesses
- Government will help to strengthen the industry by shifting its role toward extension, training, research and advisory services and away from direct income for farmers
4. Building First Nations agriculture capacity
- First Nations will have new opportunities to develop agricultural capacity for healthier communities, increased employment and greater self-reliance.
5. Bridging the urban/agriculture divide
- The future of farming will be strengthened through a greater awareness of its value to the urban population, and new policies targeted to allow generations of farming families to operate viable and integrated farm-related businesses.
Read or download the full British Columbia Agriculture Plan: Growing a Healthy Future for B.C. Families to find out more about how we’re working to secure the future for our children and grandchildren, through a viable, sustainable agriculture industry.
The B.C. Agriculture Plan (html version)
The B.C. Agriculture Plan (pdf version)
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